History & Mission

History

Friendship Center was founded by the Community Action Commission as a day care pilot project for elder and dependent adults in a small church in Santa Barbara, Friendship Baptist—hence, our name. Our program grew, and All Saints-by-the-Sea Episcopal Church offered us a larger space on their property in Montecito in 1979. Licensed by Community Care Licensing as a social model Adult Day Care Center, our goal is to provide social contact, companionship, engaging activities, nourishing meals, and supervision for the dependent adults who attend our program. For their family caregivers, we offer respite—a break from the demands of caregiving.

With many of our participants living in the Goleta area, 10-15 miles from our Montecito location, the decision was made to expand our program. In 2011 we opened Friendship Center Goleta, on the grounds of Live Oak Unitarian Universalist Congregation on Fairview Avenue.

Mission

Friendship Center preserves and enriches the quality of life for aging and dependent adults through innovative programs that value the dignity and worth of every person. We provide respite, support and education, enabling families to continue to be engaged in their community, careers and commitments.